Residents to head to polls on statewide road funding initiative

Dexter residents will have the chance to voice their opinion on changes to state road funding during the May 5 election next week.

Proposal 1, a state-wide ballot initiative, is the only measure on this year’s ballot in Dexter. It is a constitutional amendment that is meant to increase funding for road repairs throughout the state of Michigan by increasing the fuel tax to 41.7 cents or 14.9 percent of a gallon of fuel’s base value, whichever is greater.

It would also increase the non-fuel sales tax from 6 to 7 percent, an increase that is earmarked for the School Aid Fund. If passed, the proposal is projected to bring in $200 million in revenue for K-12 schools around the state during the first year.

Proposal 1 also eliminates School Aid Fund appropriations for higher education and constitutionally guarantees the money for K-12 schools, community colleges and career technical education.